ProductReportCard Editors' In-Depth Review
Specifications
Performance Comparison
Brewing Quality
The KGBT 741 is classified as an automatic drip coffee maker. It can make up to 8 cups of coffee (40 oz). We timed the brew cycle, and the water reservoir was empty after 5 minutes and 30 seconds, and the brew basket was fully drained 3 minutes later. In terms of technology, the Moccamaster features a powerful copper heating device that boils water up through the reservoir and out a metal lined spray arm that maintains optimal water temperature throughout the brew cycle and allows for an even dispersion of water over the coffee grounds. We verified the brew temperature during our tests, and recorded 198°F mid-cycle. The double walled, stainless steel carafe features a brew-through lid that has a destratification tube. This design deposits the coffee into the bottom of the carafe, and the bottom-up flow creates a natural mixing action. After brewing, the coffee temperature was 177°F, and after one hour, it was 163°F. Compared to the other thermal carafes in our test, the temperature retention of this carafe was about average.
The Moccamaster KBGT 741 achieves the ideal brewing temperature (195-205°) for coffee extraction throughout the brew cycle.
Credit: Mary Griffin
Taste Test Results
In a blind taste test that included 31 coffee drinkers, the Technivorm Moccamaster outperformed the nine other machines we tested. It came in first overall. Samples of black coffee from each machine were rated on overall taste, flavor, body, acidity, and color. The Moccamaster won in the overall taste and flavor categories. If you want the very best tasting coffee we could find, the Moccamaster will deliver. To learn more about how we tested the Moccamaster against other coffee makers, please read our How We Test section.
Getting ready to try some coffee!
Credit: Mary Griffin
Design Quality
The KGBT 741 is constructed with high quality materials, including a copper heating element. We like that you can assemble and disassemble the components easily, and we feel that the carafe is as solid and well thought-out as the rest of the machine. That being said, it does take a minute to get used to pouring from the carafe, and it can be difficult to fill more narrow mugs and cups.
The brew-through lid with destratification tube mixes the coffee automatically while brewing and helps maintain optimal holding temperature and coffee quality.
Credit: Mary Griffin
Ease of Set Up and Clean Up
The Technivorm Moccamaster features several parts that need to be assembled before brewing can begin, but once assembled, it is a one-touch brewing process using the illuminated on/off switch. The water tank is easily accessed with clear refill markings. Moccamaster recommends using oxygen whitened #4 paper filters. Please note that the brewing process will not begin (or will stop automatically) if the thermal carafe is not placed against the brew sensor switch at the base of the brewer. While there is some assembly required, removable components mean that this brewer is very easy to keep clean.
The Moccamaster has several parts to assemble before brewing. This access comes in handy for disassembly and cleaning.
Credit: Mary Griffin
Bonus Features
The Moccamaster is not programmable, so you will have to operate this coffee maker manually. While there are no automatic brew strength settings, the filter stop allows for manual manipulation of coffee strength. In addition to the brew-through lid, the carafe also comes with a convenient, spill-proof travel lid.
The Moccamaster has a brew basket with three manual settings allowing you to control water flow.
Credit: Mary Griffin
Best Uses
The Moccamaster brews high quality coffee at the optimal temperature. This machine is excellent for daily use in households that really care about their coffee and can afford the expense. It should last a long time and produce consistent, excellent results.
Value
You can purchase the Technivorm Moccamaster KBGT 741 online for about $339. Although this is the most expensive coffee maker that we tested, with the 5-year limited warranty, we think it is an excellent value. It's well made and should make quality coffee for a long time.
Conclusion
We were extremely happy with the balance, taste, and flavor of the coffee the Technivorm Moccamaster produced. It was our Overall Award Winner because it won our taste test, was easy to use, and was constructed with high quality materials. Although it is the most expensive machine we tested, the 5-year warranty indicates the confidence Technivorm has in the longevity of the product and its cost performance. For the coffee drinker who wants to wake up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee however, the lack of a programmable timer is a drawback. With that said, we found this to be an excellent machine with a stellar reputation. If you are looking to invest in your coffee making future, we think this would be the best choice. If you are looking to spend a little less, please check out our Editor's Choice and Best Buy Award winners.
As a side note, we found Technivorm's customer service to be excellent. One of our editors owns a Moccamaster that she purchased 4 years ago. She recently needed a replacement brew basket. The new item was sent to her for free, in a timely manner, with no questions asked. We think this speaks to both the value of the coffee brewer and the excellent reputation of the company.
Alternatives
OXO On Barista Brain
- $200
- SCAA Certified Home Brewer
- Programmable
Bonavita BV1900TS
- $190
- Editor's Choice Award Winner
- SCAA Certified Home Brewer
- Manual Operation
KitchenAid Pour Over Coffee Maker KCM0801
- $170
- SCAA Certified Home Brewer
- Glass Carafe and Warming Plate System
We suggest that you check out our Buying Advice for Coffee Makers to get an idea for what machine will best suit your needs.
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